Meet Jubilee Watkis | Soapmaker & Artisan

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jubilee Watkis and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jubilee, do you have a favorite quote or affirmation?
One of my favorite quotes is “Can you remember who you were, before the world told you who you should be?” -Charles Bukowski

Before becoming influenced by the world, young children are inquisitive, fearless and evoke creativity. They are optimistic beings.

Think back to your early days. What did you love to do? What lifestyle did you envision for yourself? Was it to be stuck at a corporate job that you hate but you tolerate because the pay is good? Was your dream job working hard for Amazon overnight with little-to-no raise? What was your passion? Who were you before society conformed you into who you should be?

I think back to career days at elementary and middle school. When asked “What do you want to be when you grow up?” The initial responses were princesses and princes, rappers, pop stars, artists, Hollywood movie actors, breakdancers (especially because Stomp the Yard just came out) ect.

We were instantly told to pick a more “realistic” career. As we grew older, these dream lifestyles that once seemed obtainable seemed impossible as the years progressed. Doctors, lawyers, teachers, news reporters, rapidly became the normal answer on career day. We were being stripped of our imagination without even realizing. Of course these reputable jobs are very important to society. I am saying, society often forces these jobs upon us.

When I was younger I loved experimenting with a variety of things such as with baking, making crafts, sewing, painting. I loved the arts. Just a few years ago, I was in college, working two jobs, and studying to be a speech pathologist. It took me years to realize I do not want to be a pathologist. For years I convinced myself that I wanted this career. It was difficult to redefine myself and my life. Luckily, I have returned to myself and rediscovered myself as an artisan. This is lifestyle that brings out my inner-child. The life I am happy with.

Imagine a world where we didn’t have to sacrifice our passions when we become adults. I encourage you to remember what you once loved to do and embrace it again. It could just be your career and lifestyle.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Jubilee Soaps is more than a skincare brand. This brand promotes self love and self worth, through self care. I want my products to give the confidence to embrace, love and celebrate your natural self.

I am proud every time someone sends me a before and after picture of their skin. Some of my clients battle with eczema or dry skin. Painful cysts and inflammation is replaced with clear, healthy skin. Some clients never had the confidence to take a picture without a filter on. The list goes on. To see something I created with my hands heal their skin is truly a humbling experience.

Manifestation has been a big part of my life since I could remember. Words truly have power. I am constantly saying affirmations like “I release what is no longer serving me”, “I am focused”, “I am successful.” There are times when I don’t feel motivated or feel like giving up when the pressures are getting to me, but these affirmations allow me to envision what I want in life and refocus.

Building a brand isn’t easy. Initially, I’m thinking I can make a bar of soap, and sell it. Boy I was wrong! Content creation, social media marketing, creating packaging and labeling are only a few hats business owners must wear in order to stay relevant. I definitely missed out initially by not taking the power of social media serious. Now I realize marketing is just as important as the product.

I started with one tiny bar of soap similar to a hotel-sized bar of soap. I am not where I want to be, but now my products are being shipped all over the states and the world. I am very grateful. In five years from now, I hope my company is a household brand. I want the world to know that anything is possible. Everyone has a passion. It’s never too late to start. It doesn’t matter how you start, it matters how you finish. Also, don’t let the opinion of others weigh you down.

Once you set your mind on something, stay focused and you can achieve.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
We have to go to Millennium Skate World to roller-skate. Stop by Camden Arts Yard to dance and enjoy the atmosphere.

Grab a seafood burger at Burger Bar 34th and head to Oaklyn to the Pudding Palace is an absolute must. They have the best desserts in Jersey.

Cross the bridge into Philly and relax and unwind at Harbor Park, after go to King of Prussia Mall.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I credit my church, Bridge of Peace community church for most of my upbringing. Most churches say “Come as you are” then talk about you in the same breath. My church is accepts people from all cultures, genders, nationalities, orientation and even religion. Everyone is welcome.

Bridge of Peace taught me community, how we must put the needs of others before ourselves. I didn’t always have it, I still don’t. My church made sure we had winter clothes, food from the pantry and even textbooks when I was in college.

I wouldn’t be who I am without being raised in my church.

Kids Alley

Shanice from Kenslis Love

My family.

My best friends Basina and Sol.

My friends.

My social media friends.

The city of Camden.

Website: www.jubileesoaps.com

Instagram: @jubileesoaps

Youtube: Love Jubilee https://youtu.be/OKCsb1RMZgk

Image Credits
Claud A. Watkis @cawmedia @claudawatkis , Jubilee Watkis